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Leeds United release statement after sealing transfer deal for former Atletico Madrid man

-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Leeds United have today bolstered their midfield options by signing former France international Josuha Guilavogu on a free transfer. The 34-year-old has joined the Whites on a deal until the end of the 2024/25 season.

With Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev facing long spells on the sidelines due to injury, boss Daniel Farke has repeatedly expressed his desire to increase their options in the middle of the park. Guilavogu, who had been without a club since leaving Bundesliga side Mainz at the end of last campaign, will provide cover and competition for Joe Rothwell and Ao Tanaka in the centre. He can also be deployed at centre-back.

A United statement read: "Guilavogui began his career with Saint Etienne in France, playing over 100 times for the club after progressing through the youth system. "Whilst with Les Verts, he helped the team to win the Coupe de la Ligue in 2012/13.

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"Strong performances for his club impressed the national team bosses too, which saw the midfielder earn a call up for his country in 2013, gaining the first of seven caps for Les Bleus, adding to his 15 appearances for the Under-21s.

"In the summer of 2013, Atletico Madrid moved to secure Guilavogui’s signature, and he played in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League during his time in Spain, prior to moving to the Bundesliga.

"Initially joining VfL Wolfsburg on loan, he made the move permanent and went on to play over 250 times for the German side. Success came with the club, who lifted both the DFB-Pokal and DFL-Supercup.

"More recently, Guilavogui has played for Bordeaux and Mainz 05, gaining further experience at the top level in France and Germany.

"Everyone would like to welcome Josuha to Elland Road, subject to international clearance and the necessary paperwork being ra9fied, it is hoped he will be eligible to face Bristol City in the Sky Bet Championship at Ashton Gate on Saturday."